I stuffed for the Prophet (ﷺ) a pillow decorated with pictures (of animals) which looked like a Namruqa (i.e. a small cushion). He came and stood between the two doors and his face began to change. I said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! What did we do wrong?" He said, "What is this pillow?" I said, "I have prepared this pillow for you, so that you may recline on it." He said, "Don't you know that angels do not enter a house wherein there are pictures; and whoever makes a picture will be punished on the Day of Resurrection and will be asked to give life to (what he has created)?"
Beginning of Creation - Sahih al-Bukhari 3224
This narration from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) contains profound wisdom regarding the prohibition of images depicting animate beings. The Prophet's (ﷺ) countenance changed upon seeing the decorated pillow because such images prevent angels from entering dwellings.
Scholarly Commentary
The term "Namruqa" refers to a small cushion or pillow, indicating this was a household item intended for comfort. The Prophet's immediate reaction demonstrates the gravity of possessing images with souls.
Angels, being pure spiritual beings, distance themselves from places containing images of animate creatures as this resembles the act of creation which belongs solely to Allah.
The severe warning about being asked to "give life" on Judgment Day serves as a powerful deterrent, emphasizing that creating images constitutes an imitation of divine creative power.
Legal Rulings Derived
This hadith establishes the prohibition of making, displaying, or using items containing images of beings with souls (humans, animals).
Scholars differentiate between complete and incomplete images, with greater prohibition applying to full representations.
Exceptions exist for educational necessities and images where the head is removed or features are distorted, reducing resemblance to Allah's creation.